Not Walmart, not Costco: this is the chain that's growing like crazy in the USA

In the competitive world of retail in the United States, many chains struggle to keep and expand their presence. Walmart and Costco are names that quickly come to mind when talking about supermarkets and membership clubs. However, there is another chain that is experiencing surprising growth, although sometimes its moves seem unexpected.

This is Trader Joe’s, a supermarket chain that has become a local favorite, especially in California. In 2025, Trader Joe’s has drawn attention by opening a new store in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, right across from another that already existed on the same avenue. This has sparked curiosity and debate on social media and in specialized media outlets.

A peculiar growth in Sherman Oaks

The new Trader Joe’s location in Sherman Oaks is at 14140 Riverside Drive, right across from the original store at number 14119. Although it may seem strange to have two stores from the same chain so close together, both will remain open.

The original store has been operating since 1973 and is known for its compact size and a small parking lot. In contrast, the new store occupies a much larger space inside a mixed-use residential building and features underground parking.

This decision to keep two stores on the same street reflects Trader Joe’s commitment to its clientele in the area. According to Nakia Rohde, a spokesperson for the chain, "we've had a great relationship with our customers in Sherman Oaks for 52 years, and we plan to keep both stores open. "She also told SFGATE that although both stores offer similar products, each has a different design and atmosphere, intended for different shopping experiences.

Differences in experience and offerings

The stores share popular products such as the "Hold the Cone!" mini ice cream cones in various flavors, frozen mushroom risotto, and beef tamales. They also offer highly demanded snacks, like the "Pizza Party Potato Chips." However, the shopping experience is different in each one.

The new store stands out for its high ceiling, bright lighting, and modern decor with a vibrant mural on the exterior. Its flower section is larger and its produce area offers fresher and more varied products, including large artichokes and food tastings like Korean bibim-guksu. It also has more spacious aisles, with frozen foods spread across more than two full aisles.

In comparison, the original store feels smaller and more outdated, with low ceilings and narrow aisles. Despite this, it remains very popular and has loyal customers who appreciate its proximity and the variety of products it offers.

Trader Joe’s plans to open at least 12 new stores across the country this year, keeping its strategy of steady growth. Rohde explains that "since Trader Joe’s started in 1967, we've always been in growth mode. Our goal is to bring delicious products at a good price to as many people as possible."